The Newton College and Career Academy has been named a Ford Next Generation Learning Community — one of more than 15 communities in the nation, by the Ford Motor Company Fund, and the community is invited to celebrate the honor.

Members of the Newton County Chamber of Commerce and local business leaders will join together with students and staff of the NCCA on Tuesday, Oct. 15 at 8:30 a.m. to celebrate the designation.

With the recognition, NCCA will receive ongoing guidance and technical assistance from the Ford NGL Leadership Team as NCCA implements its plan and reviews its progress annually; become members in the Ford NGL national network, which will allow it to learn from other Ford NGL communities; and leverage the Ford NGL designation to encourage economic development for the region by demonstrating that NCCA is preparing students for high-wage, high-skill jobs in their community. James Woodard, Principal and CEO of Newton College and Career Academy, said the school is honored to receive the designation.

"The designation recognizes NCCA as having a plan which is focused on creating a learning environment which will enhance academic achievement and workforce preparedness for our students."

Newton College and Career Academy prepares students for college and career paths.